Improving the Human Condition

A circular graphic mark with the words "IMPROVING THE" curved across the top and the words "HUMAN CONDITION" curved across the bottom. A stylized Staff of Asclepius sits in the middle. Behind the Staff is line art of a sunburst and open book inside of the silhouette of a gear.

Equipped with confidence.
Guided by character.
Driven to impact.

At Oregon Tech, Improving the Human Condition is not a slogan. It is the heart of everything we already do.

We exist to equip people to change lives, starting with their own.

For years, we’ve been known as Oregon’s Polytechnic University because we emphasize hands-on learning and practical skills to solve real-world problems.

We’re now inviting the world to see and hear how polytechnic translates to transformational educational experiences.

Introducing our new video series: Voices of Oregon Tech. (VOT for short because we love acronyms in academia!)

Within the series, you will hear directly from students, faculty, staff, parents, alumni, industry partners, and donors. Their voices and stories reveal the real impact of Oregon Tech. They show how we are improving the human condition, person by person, and prove what is possible when competence is aligned with character.

 

Watch full episodes of VOT on our YouTube channel… and follow Oregon Tech on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn for VOT updates & previews

ICYMI

(in case you missed it)
A YouTube thumbnail of a married couple sitting on stairs being interviewed.

THE MICK FAMILY

 Celebrating legacy and the transformative power of education to shape generations.

Meet the Mick Family, a family whose story is deeply woven into the fabric of Oregon Tech.

Brenda (Ruppel) Mick, Class of 1997, was part of Oregon Tech’s very first Medical Imaging Technology cohort. For the past 25 years, she has served patients as an ultrasound technologist at Sky Lakes Medical Center, improving lives through compassionate, hands-on care. This year, she was inducted into the Oregon Tech Athletic Hall of Fame, a testament to her excellence both on and off the softball field.

Brenda met her husband Bobby Mick as a student at Oregon Tech. Today, their story comes full circle: both of their daughters are Oregon Tech alumni with distinguished softball careers, and Bobby now gives back as an assistant softball coach.

From classroom to clinic, from field to family, Oregon Tech is more than a university to the Micks. It is a legacy.

Watch the full episode HERE

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DR. CHRISTOPHER SYRNYK

 Championing scholarly excellence and intellectual inquiry that prepares leaders.

Spotlighting Dr. Christopher Syrnyk and Oregon Tech’s Honors Program.

As Executive Director of the Honors Program and Office of National Scholarships, and a professor of rhetoric and writing, Dr. Syrnyk helps shape an interdisciplinary academic experience that challenges students across every major to think deeply, lead thoughtfully, and serve meaningfully.

The Honors Program brings together high-achieving students who are committed not only to academic excellence but also to civic engagement and community connection. This year, 17 new students were inducted into the program.

Beyond the classroom, the Honors Program intentionally connects students to the broader community, partnering with local businesses and cultural events to encourage students to engage with place, people, and purpose.

Watch the full episode HERE

A YouTube thumbnail of a student being interviewed

CODY MUELLER

 Honoring military service, resilience, and the enduring impact of Oregon Tech’s roots.

Featuring Cody Mueller, an Army veteran and Oregon Tech student, and Don Stockton, Director of Veteran Student Services.

Oregon Tech was founded to serve veterans returning from World War II who needed a place to heal, rebuild, and chart new futures. That legacy continues today. Oregon Tech remains a place where veterans lead, contribute, and thrive.

Cody Mueller is thriving in Oregon Tech’s Nuclear Medicine program, where hands-on training, strong mentorship, and comprehensive support have helped him turn military experience into a meaningful healthcare career. 

Alongside Cody, Don Stockton shares how Oregon Tech’s veteran-centered services create a community that supports those who have served academically, professionally, and personally.

Watch the full episode HERE